Theme parties can be all the more fun if the guests in question have common likes and hobbies. Here are a few ideas that are sure to please.

Be your fave celeb: This one’s for the page 3 junkies... yes, even (especially?) those who pretend to look down on such “news” but devour them in secret. Of course, those who don’t belong to this category but are still on the guest list can show up as their favourite politician or sportsperson. You do even throw a tribute party to late stars; wouldn’t it be fun to show up as Charlie Chaplin, Michael Jackson or Marilyn Monroe?

Antakshari time: For the film buffs. Got Bollywood music running through your veins and aren’t ashamed to show it? A few rounds of Antakshari/Dumb Charades are just your thing. Some impromptu dancing would only be the icing on the cake.

Movie/book club: However, if you’d rather watch an Indian/international movie and then critique/discuss it, or do a mini reading of a book that means something to all your invitees, try a movie/book club night. This could also be a hit if you and/your guests have kids. Of course, your choices will have to be more adapted.

Board game fun: For kids, for the kid in you, with kids — board games spell classic fun. Be it Scrabble, Monopoly, Chess or even card games (regular playing cards or UNO), they’re a great icebreaker that could help your guests to get to know each other better. A huge change from inane drinking games where the only point is to get wasted.

Erotic night in: A good idea to try among consenting adults. Now before you get carried away and think “orgy”, we aren’t suggesting anything that extreme. Just an evening of dressing sexy/slutty (as you please), reading erotica aloud or watching a mild X rated movie. Again, among consenting adults only.

Planned potluck: Remember that cooking for a party, regardless of the theme, can be a tedious task. You aren’t Superwoman. Ask for help. Or simply organise a potluck party where each guest bring along something to eat or drink. As simple and practical as that.

Antakshari time: For the film buffs. Got Bollywood music running through your veins and aren’t ashamed to show it? A few rounds of Antakshari/Dumb Charades are just your thing. Some impromptu dancing would only be the icing on the cake.